keyboard shortcut Archives

Winsage

April 15, 2026

Scott Hanselman Brings a macOS Feature to Windows

Microsoft vice president Scott Hanselman has introduced a new feature for Windows 11 called PeekDesktop, which allows users to minimize all open windows by clicking on an empty space on their desktop. This feature provides a clear view of files and shortcuts and can be restored with a second click. PeekDesktop is compatible with both x64 and Arm64 systems and is available for download on Scott's Tiny Tool Town website.

AppWizard

April 14, 2026

Google’s new Windows app speeds up search on desktop

Google has launched a new app for Windows users that enhances the search experience by allowing web, Google account, and local file searches through a keyboard shortcut (Alt + Space). The app features a floating search bar with options to upload files, share screens, and use Google Lens for visual searches. It defaults to AI Mode but allows users to switch to traditional search methods. The app is available globally, but only for Windows 10 and newer systems, and currently supports only the English language.

Winsage

April 13, 2026

Paint (25H2)

Microsoft has updated Paint significantly with the rollout of Windows 11, enhancing both its user interface and core functionalities. Key updates include the introduction of a Dark mode, an updated Text tool, layer capabilities similar to Photoshop, and support for transparent PNG files. Paint now features AI-driven tools, some of which require a Microsoft account and a Microsoft 365 subscription, while others are accessible on any PC or require a Copilot+ PC. Customization options in Paint are limited; users cannot disable any image creation or editing features but can change the app theme and configure watermark settings for AI-generated content. The toolbar can be set to auto-hide, and users can view their work in full screen by pressing F11. New features include the ability to save projects with multiple layers, a Remove background tool, an Image Creator for generating images from text prompts, and a Generative erase tool for removing objects from images. Copilot+ PCs unlock additional features that operate locally, such as Object select, Sticker generator, Cocreator, and Generative fill, which requires specific hardware capabilities.

Winsage

March 31, 2026

The March Windows 11 Insider Update adds 9 fresh features and improvements worth knowing

- Microsoft has introduced several enhancements for Windows 11 through its Windows Insider Program, including previews for versions 25H2, 26H1, 26H2, and anticipated version 27H2. - The Pointer Indicator feature, starting with build 26300.8085, helps users with low vision locate the mouse pointer by overlaying a crosshair effect and offers customizable color options. - A redesigned Feedback Hub app aligns with Windows 11 aesthetics and improves user experience for feedback submission, including Bluetooth LE Audio device connections and main volume controls in Quick Settings. - The File Explorer context menu now displays application icons alongside the "Open" option for certain file types, available in the Canary Channel with build 28020.1743. - The Administrator Protection feature, introduced in builds 26300.8142 and 26220.8138, prompts an authorization dialog for unsigned or untrusted applications seeking privilege elevation, enhancing security. - Windows 11 now allows customization of the right-click zone size on touchpads, available under Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Touchpad, for touchpads with a pressable surface. - Task Manager updates include new columns for "NPU" and "NPU Engine" on various pages, as well as columns for "NPU Dedicated Memory" and "NPU Shared Memory" on the Details page. - A new icon in printer settings indicates which printers support Windows Protected Print mode, enhancing printing security. - The Windows Console is undergoing significant changes, merging improvements from Windows Terminal, including an optional Direct3D rendering path and enhanced Find dialog functionality.

Winsage

March 15, 2026

I stopped letting Windows 11 “help” with my files—my PC feels faster now

Windows File Explorer's performance has declined due to the accumulation of features that have made it more cumbersome. Users can improve performance by disabling certain features: 1. Disable OneDrive: OneDrive consumes over a gigabyte of memory during syncing. To disable it, right-click the cloud icon in the system tray, access settings, unlink the PC, and disable it from auto-launching in Task Manager. 2. Turn off Bitlocker: Bitlocker encrypts drives by default, which can slow down file operations. To disable it, go to Control Panel > System & Security > Bitlocker Encryption and select Turn Bitlocker off. 3. Disable automatic folder type discovery: This feature can cause lag when opening folders. To disable it, edit the Windows Registry by navigating to a specific path and creating a new String Value named "FolderType" with the value "NotSpecified." 4. Turn off Windows Search indexing: Windows Search consumes resources and may perform poorly. To disable it, access services.msc, stop Windows Search, and change its Startup type to Disable. Users can then download and use the tool "Everything" for a more efficient search experience.

Winsage

February 24, 2026

How to Disable Copilot in Windows 11 — Uninstall, Hide, and Stop It from Coming Back

Microsoft has integrated its AI assistant, Copilot, into various parts of Windows 11, including the taskbar, Edge, and Notepad. Users have expressed a desire to remove Copilot, leading to the creation of a guide detailing methods to disable it. Copilot can be uninstalled through Settings, but additional steps are required to remove it from Edge, Notepad, and Windows Search. Users can also prevent Copilot from reinstalling after updates by adjusting registry settings. The Copilot app is categorized as a standalone application in Windows 11 24H2, making it easier to uninstall compared to previous versions. Methods to disable Copilot include: 1. Uninstalling the app via Settings. 2. Hiding the icon from the taskbar. 3. Using Group Policy Editor (limited to Pro, Enterprise, Education). 4. Removing Copilot for all users using PowerShell. 5. Adjusting settings in Edge and Notepad to disable Copilot features. 6. Editing the registry to remove Copilot from Windows Search and Paint. 7. Remapping the physical Copilot key on newer laptops. 8. Disabling silent reinstallation of Copilot through registry edits. Disabling Copilot will not affect core Windows functionality but will remove AI-specific features such as the chatbot and writing assistance.

AppWizard

February 10, 2026

Android desktop will put Gemini front and center — just as you’d expect

Google is integrating its Gemini feature into Android to enhance its desktop capabilities. Gemini will be pinned to the top right corner of the upcoming Android desktop interface and can be launched using a keyboard shortcut with the Google key and Space. The latest beta version of the Google app (version 17.5) confirms this setup. Additionally, an animation featuring Gemini appears during the setup phase of PCs running the new Aluminium OS, suggesting a streamlined user experience.

Winsage

January 20, 2026

I raced to my PC to install this new PowerToys update — but its best new feature is one control away from greatness

Microsoft's PowerToys has released version 0.97, enhancing the Windows 11 experience with a new utility and significant updates to the Command Palette. The Command Palette now features a Personalization page for customizing its interface, including background images and color tinting. It also includes fallback ranking for search results, allowing users to manage command order through drag-and-drop. A new extension enables control of PowerToys features directly from the Command Palette, and the Peek feature allows file and folder previews. Additional updates include support for Pinyin, a Remote Desktop extension, custom search engine selection, and drag-and-drop support for File Indexer and Clipboard History. The new CursorWrap feature allows seamless mouse movement across multiple monitors. The Quick Access flyout has been optimized for faster launch times and can be customized or disabled. PowerToys now offers expanded CLI support for utilities like FancyZones and Image Resizer. Other changes include the Light Switch feature following the Night Light setting, a revamped "What's new" dialog, and improvements to the Advanced Paste feature. CursorWrap shows promise but has minor bugs and user requests for further refinements.

Winsage

January 9, 2026

The Secret Microsoft App That Improves How I Use Windows

PowerToys is a suite of utilities developed by Microsoft, available for free on GitHub and other platforms, which enhances the Windows user experience with frequently updated functionalities. Key utilities include: - Command Palette: A tool for launching applications, searching for files, and locating open windows, with a Bookmarks feature for quick access to folders and websites. - Light Switch: Allows users to toggle dark mode with a keyboard shortcut and schedule it based on fixed hours or local sunset times. - Peek: Enables quick file previews by pressing the Space bar, allowing seamless navigation through files. - Text Extractor: A utility for extracting text from images faster than Windows' built-in OCR, using the shortcut Windows + Shift + T. - Image Resizer: Simplifies the process of resizing images through a right-click option in File Explorer, offering preset sizes and custom resolutions. - Awake: Keeps PCs active beyond default sleep settings, allowing users to choose a duration for their systems to remain awake. - FancyZones: Provides custom window layouts for efficient workspace organization, allowing users to snap windows into designated zones.

Winsage

January 8, 2026

How to get started with PowerToys Command Palette on Windows 11 — an answer to macOS Spotlight for Windows PCs

The Command Palette is a feature in PowerToys for Windows 11 that allows advanced users to access applications, settings, and system tools quickly, similar to macOS Spotlight. To install it, users must install PowerToys via Command Prompt or the Microsoft Store. Configuration involves enabling the Command Palette, customizing activation shortcuts, and adjusting display settings. Users can search for applications, settings, and files, perform calculations, access clipboard history, and execute system commands. Keyboard modifiers enhance functionality, and users can create custom search shortcuts with community plugins. The Command Palette also includes a Registry browser extension for navigating the Windows Registry.